Arcade Machine Freight Shipping
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) pallet freight is the industry standard for shipping arcade machines, pinball machines, and coin-op equipment nationwide. It's faster, cheaper, and safer than moving companies — and we specialize in it exclusively for the coin-op amusement industry.
What Is Arcade Freight Shipping (LTL)?
Freight shipping — specifically LTL or Less-Than-Truckload freight — is the process of shipping palletized cargo via professional freight carriers. Unlike a moving company (which packs a whole truck for one customer), LTL freight shares truck space with other palletized cargo. You only pay for the space and weight your pallet occupies.
For arcade machines, pinball machines, and other coin-op equipment, LTL freight is the standard. A single machine goes on a 48"×40" pallet, gets wrapped and strapped, and ships via a national or regional freight carrier. Most carriers have networks covering all 50 states, with transit times of 3–10 business days.
The key advantage of our service: we use a single carrier for the entire journey. Many freight services use multiple carriers with cross-docking — transferring cargo between trucks at freight terminals. More transfers = more damage risk. We avoid this by keeping your machine on one carrier from door to door.
Our Shipping Process
Pickup
Get a Freight Quote
Provide machine type, weight, dimensions, origin zip, and destination zip. We'll return your LTL freight rate — typically within one business day. Our single-carrier quotes often beat standard LTL broker rates.
Packing
Palletize Your Machine
Place the machine on a standard 48"×40" pallet. Wrap in cardboard, then stretch wrap. Secure with 2–3 ratchet straps. All machines must be properly palletized — this is required for LTL freight terminals and protects the machine during transit.
Freight Transport
Freight Carrier Pickup
The freight carrier picks up from the origin — typically at a scheduled pickup window. For residential pickup, liftgate service is added. Commercial and dock pickups are straightforward and cost less.
Delivery
Direct Freight Delivery
Our single-carrier approach delivers directly to the destination without intermediate terminal transfers. You get notification of the delivery window. Liftgate service available for residential delivery.
LTL Freight Rates for Arcade Machines
LTL freight rates for arcade machines are based on the shipment's weight, freight class, origin/destination zip codes, and accessorial services needed. Most arcade machine shipments cost $150–$500 for domestic US freight.
- Weight — most arcade cabinets are 200–400 lbs; heavier = higher freight cost.
- Freight class — determined by density and stacking ability. Palletized coin-op machines typically fall in class 92.5–125.
- Distance — local/regional freight is cheaper; cross-country LTL runs higher.
- Residential liftgate — adds $75–$125 per pickup/delivery if no dock or forklift.
- Single vs. multi-carrier — our single-carrier approach eliminates transfer fees and reduces damage claims.
- $10,000 insurance for just $25 — far cheaper than LTL carrier liability limits.
Why Choose Coin Machine Shippers?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LTL freight shipping for arcade machines?
LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) freight shipping means your palletized arcade machine shares truck space with other cargo — you only pay for the space your machine occupies. It's the most cost-effective method for shipping heavy items like arcade cabinets and pinball machines.
Is LTL freight safe for arcade machines?
Yes, when properly palletized and wrapped. The main risk with LTL is terminal transfers — cargo changing trucks at freight depots. We mitigate this with our single-carrier approach, keeping your machine on one truck from pickup to delivery.
What's the difference between LTL and white glove shipping?
LTL is palletized freight — cheaper, faster, and available nationwide. White glove shipping involves blanket-wrapped moving by two-person crews with inside delivery. White glove costs 3–5× more than LTL. For most coin-op machines, properly palletized LTL provides excellent protection at a fraction of the cost.
How do I calculate the freight class for my arcade machine?
Freight class is based on density (lbs per cubic foot). A standard upright arcade machine on a 48"×40" pallet typically falls in freight class 92.5–125. We handle the freight class calculation for you when you request a quote.
Get a Free Quote
$10,000 insurance for just $25
Protect your machine with $10,000 of freight insurance for just $25. Strongly recommended for all vintage, collectible, or high-value equipment.